On Friday, October 3rd, 2025, the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT) held a Safeguarding Awareness session aimed at equipping staff and students with essential knowledge to ensure their safety within the University environment. The event, held in the CEDAT Conference Hall, attracted a large number of students and was facilitated by student Champion Atim Mary Agnes from the Margaret Trowel School of Industrial and Fine Art. Her engaging presentation emphasized the importance of creating a safe, supportive, and informed campus community.
“Safeguarding starts with you,” emphasized student Champion Atim Mary Agnes as she introduced the concept and practice of safeguarding during the awareness session. She underscored the importance of identifying effective strategies to prevent incidents that may expose individuals to harm. Atim highlighted the various parties involved in safeguarding, including survivors, alleged offenders, whistleblowers, and third-party witnesses, and stressed the need for collaborative efforts among all stakeholders. She also noted that fifty staff safeguarding champions and over one hundred student champions had been trained, recognizing that students are often the primary targets and the most vulnerable group within the university community.
Ms. Atim Mary Agnes urged university management to extend safeguarding efforts to student hostels, where many students remain vulnerable to harm. While outlining the contents of the safeguarding policy, she emphasized that several existing policies already reinforce the University’s commitment to safety and protection. These include the Human Resources Policy, Student Accommodation Policy, and the Teaching and Learning Policy, among others, all of which are accessible via the University website. She highlighted the key safeguarding concerns that include physical harm, emotional harm, financial and neglect, emphasizing the commitment of Makerere University in ensuring safety.
During the session, CEDAT staff Safeguarding Champions were also in attendance, including Dr. Jane Namaganda Kiyimba from the Electrical Engineering Department and Ms. AngelaNabitaka Bizimana from the Registry. Their presence reinforced the message delivered by student Champion Atim Mary Agnes, as they elaborated on the available mechanisms for reporting safeguarding concerns. The staff champions also actively responded to issues raised during the plenary session, highlighting the University’s commitment to addressing cases promptly and sensitively.
Makerere University places the highest priority on the safety and well-being of its students, staff, and the surrounding community. The safeguarding measures include a range of policies and practices designed to prevent harm and create a secure environment. It is committed to fostering a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels safe and valued.
Written by Harriet Musinguzi,
Principal Communication Officer, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology